Practice Makes Perfect: Essay edition
Moderator
🚨When it comes to writing for the bar exam, the essays are one of the most daunting sections. This is because, unlike the multiple choice section, there are no answers for you to choose from, you have to pull the law from the memorized files within your brain.
Pro-tip: check the frequency with which each subject and subtopic has been tested in your jurisdiction. While you should not ignore any subject or subtopic, this will allow you to know the highly tested subjects. Additionally, learn at least three foundational rules of law in each subject. This way, when presented with this subject on the bar exam, you will have a place to start no matter what the facts.
For example, with secured transactions, you are going to need to know the definitions of security instrument, attachment, and perfection as well as how to adequately apply these concepts. Knowing these will get you started, and you will have grabbed some points easily.
Now for some frequently asked questions!
Q: how many essays should I be doing per week?
A: there is no winning formula for this, BUT you should begin writing early and often. If you are writing at least 1-3 essay a week, and submitting one of them for feedback, your skills will grow exponentially.
Q: does the issue statement matter, as it is not taken into account in most Jurisdictions when grading the bar?
A: the issue statement is the compass of your essay. It helps you navigate every other point generating element. If you can't correctly spot or define the issue, then you may be lost the rest of the way. Subsequently, your reader will be lost as well. Issue statements are, therefore, still an integral part of drafting your essay.
Q: how should I format my essay?
A: structure is important in a bar exam essay. Your graders don't want to have to search all over the page for rules when they could be conveniently placed together in one section. Hence, you should use the format you felt most comfortable during law school. IRAC or CIRAC. As stated above, don't skimp on the issue statement. Whether or not you choose to lead with your conclusion is up to you.
Q: how can I use AI to help?
A: AI is an AMAZING tool, and something many of us use to help with our writing these days. You will not have that technology with you on the exam though, so I don't recommend getting too comfortable with having AI clean up your work before submitting it for a grade. However, with Kaplan you CAN use our AI instant essay grader to give feedback on work you have completed on your own!
If you have additional questions, please throw them in the chat, or email your DLE! We are always happy to help!
Comments
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Ive downloaded the AI extension, but I dont see how to submit an essay for grading to AI?
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